Podcast
Kessler Foundation Podcasts
Hosted by Kessler Foundation · EN
Kessler Foundation - Changing the lives of people with disabilities through research in stroke, brain injury, multiple sclerosis, spinal cord injury and by funding innovative programs that promote employment for people with disabilities. Podcasts are from various consumer and professional lectures presented by our researchers and guest lecturers.
16episodes
Episodes
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Focused on Strengths: Autism Research at Kessler Foundation
2w ago00:44:01Tap to summarizeIn this recorded webinar, Helen Genova, PhD, associate director of Kessler Foundation’s Center for Autism Research, explores a strength‑based, evidence‑driven approach to autism research grounded in positive psychology. The session highlights research focused on expanding employment opportunities, participation, and quality of life for autistic and neurodiverse individuals. The webinar also features KF‑STRIDE®️, a research‑backed program that helps autistic and neurodiverse young adults identify their strengths and communicate them effectively to achieve their personal and professional goals. The recording concludes with a panel discussion featuring Michelle and Gabe Schaerf, a mother and son participating in Kessler Foundation research, and Michael Dacanay, senior research assistant and program facilitator, sharing real‑world perspectives on how strength‑focused research and programs are applied in daily life. Key Takeaways: * Strengths-based approaches dramatically outperform deficit-focused methods — KF-STRIDE's 54% employment rate, compared with 12% in the control group, demonstrates that framing autism as a set of unique abilities rather than limitations is far more effective. * Interview preparation is a critical, often-overlooked barrier — Many autistic individuals struggle not with job capability but with communicating their strengths in interviews, making targeted interview support a high-impact intervention. * Positive psychology tools work better than traditional job training — Using animated videos and personalized coaching to build confidence and self-awareness produces superior outcomes compared to conventional employment support programs. In this webinar: 00:00 – Welcome, Shelby Nielsen 01:07 – Autism research at Kessler Foundation, Helen Genova, PhD Panel Discussion: 22:34 – Michelle Schaerf 25:17 – Gabriel Schaerf 29:30 – Michael Dacanay 33:11 - Helen Genova, PhD 38:07 – Gabriel Schaerf 39:30 – Wrap-up LEARN more about Kessler Foundation’s autism research at: https://kesslerfoundation.org/research/autism To Join a Study or Learn More Ways to Get Involved visit: https://kesslerfoundation.org/ways-get-involved READ the transcript, https://kesslerfoundation.org/sites/default/files/2026-05/Real-Life-Science-Autism-Event%20Transcript-07MAY26.pdf
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From Research to Relief
Apr 2700:07:20Tap to summarizeIn this episode, we look at innovative research on shockwave therapy for reducing muscle spasticity after spinal cord injury. We hear from study participant Scott Texidor about his experience with this new treatment. Then, we discuss a study on how outdoor spaces can be made more accessible for people who use wheelchairs. These research efforts aim to improve quality of life and promote inclusion through science and community design. Article Timestamps 00:00 - Welcome 00:41 - A new wave of discovery for life 03:55 - Taking a chance 05:00 -Sometimes I just wanna be outside! 06:49 - Episode Wrap-Up Kessler Foundation Investigators: Nathan Hogaboom, PhD, https://kesslerfoundation.org/about-us/foundation-staff/nathan-hogaboom-phd Lauren Murphy, PhD, https://kesslerfoundation.org/about-us/foundation-staff/lauren-murphy-phd Amanda Botticello, PhD, MPH, https://kesslerfoundation.org/about-us/foundation-staff/amanda-botticello-phd-mph READ our Spring 2026 Your Impact Newsletter: https://kesslerfoundation.org/newsletter/your-impact-newsletter-spring-2026 LISTEN to all our 2025 Your Impact Report stories: soundcloud.com/kesslerfoundation/sets/your-impact-audio-newsletter EXPLORE our research: Derfner-Lieberman Laboratory for Regenerative Rehabilitation Research, https://kesslerfoundation.org/lab/derfner-lieberman-laboratory-regenerative-rehabilitation-research Center for Outcomes and Assessment Research, https://kesslerfoundation.org/research/center-outcomes-and-assessment-research PARTICIPATE: Interested in participating in our research remotely or in-person? Go to kesslerfoundation.org/join
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Practical Strategies for TBI Recovery
Apr 2200:09:59Tap to summarizeBrainwaves TBI newsletter explores recovery journeys for traumatic brain injury survivors. In this podcast of a recent article, we hear Darcy’s remarkable story of overcoming TBI after a devastating car accident. Despite sustaining a brain bleed, collapsed lung, and memory loss, Darcy shifted her mindset from focusing on limitations to possibilities. Darcy shares a five-step method to rebuild life, including the importance of surrender, perseverance, and specifically asking for help. The podcast also discusses practical tools like using timers, calendars, and working during peak alertness. There is also an introduction to the Rutgers Synapse program, which supports survivors and caregivers through peer connections. Articles 00:00 - Welcome and Introduction 00:41 - Taking ‘STEPS’ to Overcome Adversity 03:35 - Five “STEPS” to help overcome adversity after traumatic brain injury 04:31 - There’s No Place Like Home 07:15 - "A Smart Start to Life at Home" 08:00 - RU Ready for a New Brain Injury Resource? 09:50 - Episode wrap-up For more information: READ this TBI Brainwaves newsletter, https://kesslerfoundation.org/newsletter/brainwaves-fall-2025-taking-steps-overcome-adversity LISTEN to past Brainwaves audio newsletters, https://soundcloud.com/kesslerfoundation/sets/brainwaves-audio-newsletter LEARN MORE—TBI Facts Sheets from the Model Systems Knowledge Translation Center, https://msktc.org/tbi/factsheets PARTICIPATE: Interested in participating in our research remotely or in-person? Go to https://kesslerfoundation.org/join-our-research-studies Production Notes This podcast was recorded, produced, and edited by Joan Banks-Smith , Creative Producer at Kessler Foundation (March 2026). Accessibility Kessler Foundation uses AI voices and narrators to make our media more accessible. These tools help ensure people with visual or cognitive impairments can access our materials. Automated voices may not always capture intonation or pronunciation as clearly as the accompanying text. If you experience issues with our AI narrators, please contact us at communications@kesslerfoundation.org.
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Thinking Outside the Box for TBI care with Mandi Dickey
Apr 2000:58:57Tap to summarizeMandy Dickey, a nurse practitioner with over 20 years of experience, shares her profound journey through traumatic brain injury and recovery. Her story reveals how standard tests missed visual issues that caused headaches and how unconventional treatments like photobiomodulation and neurofeedback helped improve brain function. Supported by leading organizations, this episode provides hope and guidance for anyone facing brain injury challenges. Learn more about Mandi Dickey, https://biausa.org/brain-injury/community/speakers-bureau/mandi-dickey Learn more about Kessler Foundation’s TBI research, https://kesslerfoundation.org/research/center-traumatic-brain-injury-research View the slides: https://kesslerfoundation.org/sites/default/files/2026-04/Spring%202026%20TBI%20Brainstorm%20-Dickey.pdf Are you ready to be part of something bigger? Join a research study TODAY and help transform lives. Go to https://kesslerfoundation.org/join
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Achieving Your Goals - Pathways to Success
Apr 901:00:15Tap to summarizeIn this episode, scientists at Kessler Foundation share how promising research is opening new pathways for individuals living with spinal cord injury and changing the landscape of recovery. This podcast is from the second event in our three-part Spinal Cord Injury Community Event Series, held on November 14, 2025. Kessler Foundation’s SCI research addresses mobility, pain and spasticity management, prevention of secondary complications, and addresses systemic challenges such as employment barriers and caregiver well-being. Recovery is about more than movement—it’s about reclaiming independence, managing health challenges, and improving quality of life for individuals and their caregivers. In this podcast, Drs. Steven Kirshblum, Ghaith Androwis, Gail Forrest, Einat Engel-Haber, and Trevor Dyson-Hudson, share their expertise on exciting advancements in spinal cord injury research. ===================================================================================== Kessler Foundation Investigator: Jeanne Zanca, PhD, MPT, https://kesslerfoundation.org/aboutus/Jeanne-Zanca Steven Kirshblum, MD, https://kesslerfoundation.org/about-us/foundation-staff/steven-kirshblum-md Ghaith J. Androwis, PhD, https://kesslerfoundation.org/aboutus/Ghaith%20Androwis Gail Forrest, PhD, https://kesslerfoundation.org/aboutus/Gail%20Forrest Einat Engel-Haber, MD, https://kesslerfoundation.org/about-us/foundation-staff/einat-engel-haber-md Trevor Dyson-Hudson, MD, https://kesslerfoundation.org/aboutus/Trevor%20Dyson-Hudson ===================================================================================== EXPLORE our spinal cord injury research: Center for Spinal Cord Injury Research, https://kesslerfoundation.org/research/center-spinal-cord-injury-research Tim and Caroline Reynolds Center for Spinal Stimulation, https://kesslerfoundation.org/research/tim-and-caroline-reynolds-center-spinal-stimulation PARTICIPATE: Interested in participating in our research remotely or in-person? Go to kesslerfoundation.org/join LISTEN to all the series podcasts: https://soundcloud.com/kesslerfoundation/sets/spinal-cord-injury-research RESOURCE links: https://kesslerfoundation.org/join scitrialsfinder.net ===================================================================================== LOOKING FOR MORE PODCASTS? Join our listeners in 90 countries who enjoy learning about the work of Kessler Foundation. Subscribe to our SoundCloud channel, “KesslerFoundation,” for more research updates. This podcast was recorded, produced, and edited by Joan Banks-Smith, Creative Producer at Kessler Foundation in November 2025. ===================================================================================== Kessler Foundation uses AI voices and narrators to make our media more accessible. These tools help ensure people with visual or cognitive impairments can access our materials. Automated voices may not always capture intonation or pronunciation as clearly as the accompanying text. If you experience issues with our AI narrators, please contact us at communications@kesslerfoundation.org.
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What’s next in TBI Research: Innovation, Collaboration, and Impact at Kessler Foundation
Apr 100:54:36Tap to summarizeIn honor of Brain Injury Awareness Month, this recorded webinar highlights how Kessler Foundation advances traumatic brain injury research through collaboration across disciplines. Led by Nancy Chiaravalloti, PhD, Director of the Centers for Traumatic Brain Injury and Neuroscience and Neuropsychology Research, the discussion features insights from Brian M. Sandroff, PhD and Silvana Lopes Costa, PhD. Together, they explore how cross‑functional collaboration—spanning research, neuroscience, neuropsychology, and beyond—drives innovation and accelerates progress in TBI research. Viewers gain a behind‑the‑scenes look at how ideas move from investigation to real‑world impact at Kessler Foundation, and how collaborative science helps improve outcomes for individuals affected by brain injury. Whether you are a researcher, clinician, student, advocate, or community member, this timely conversation offers valuable perspective on the future of TBI research and the power of working together to advance discovery. In this webinar: 00:00 - Welcome - Shelby Neilsen 01:49 - Nancy Chiaravalloti, PhD 22:29 - Brian M. Sandroff, PhD 36:34 - Silvana Lopes Costa, PhD 45:00 - Q&A 53:00 - Wrap-up Learn more about Kessler Foundation’s TBI research at: https://kesslerfoundation.org/research/traumatic-brain-injury To Join a Study or Learn More Ways to Get Involved visit: https://kesslerfoundation.org/ways-get-involved Read the transcript: https://kesslerfoundation.org/sites/default/files/2026-03/RLS%20-%20What%E2%80%99s%20next%20in%20TBI%20Research-Transcript.pdf View the slides: https://kesslerfoundation.org/sites/default/files/2026-03/RLS%20-%20What%E2%80%99s%20next%20in%20TBI%20Research%20Webinar-Slides.pdf
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Empowerment and Healing Through Recovery after TBI
Mar 3000:10:46Tap to summarizeIn this episode of BrainWaves, hear the powerful story of Craig Philips who overcame a brain injury sustained in childhood to find purpose and hope. Learn practical tips on acceptance and recovery. Discover how simple home changes can boost safety and independence. Understand the importance of balance and where to find free resources. Finally, explore the science behind music therapy and its role in healing the brain. This episode is brought to you by the Northern New Jersey Traumatic Brain Injury Model System and Kessler Foundation. Articles 00:00:00 - Welcome and Introduction 00:00:45 - Finding Second Chances 00:03:48 - The Road to Empowerment 00:04:46 - Change Your Space to Change Your Life 00:07:06 - Safety in Balance 00:08:05 - Music as Medicine 00:09:22 - Musical Approach to Treatment 00:010:02 - Episode Wrap Up For more information: READ this TBI Brainwaves newsletter (https://kesslerfoundation.org/newsletter/brainwaves-spring-2026-finding-second-chances) LISTEN to past Brainwaves audio newsletters: https://soundcloud.com/kesslerfoundation/sets/brainwaves-audio-newsletter LEARN MORE—TBI Facts Sheets from the Model Systems Knowledge Translation Center msktc.org/tbi/factsheets PARTICIPATE: Interested in participating in our research remotely or in-person? Go to kesslerfoundation.org/join-our-research-studies Production Notes This podcast was recorded, produced, and edited by Joan Banks-Smith , Creative Producer at Kessler Foundation (March 2026). Accessibility Kessler Foundation uses AI voices and narrators to make our media more accessible. These tools help ensure people with visual or cognitive impairments can access our materials. Automated voices may not always capture intonation or pronunciation as clearly as the accompanying text. If you experience issues with our AI narrators, please contact us at communications@kesslerfoundation.org.
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Meant for More with Karen Olson: Living Fully and Finding Purpose After Spinal Cord Injury
Mar 2600:18:31Tap to summarizeIn this episode, Karen Olson shares her deeply personal journey, marked by early tragedy and perseverance. Following a fall that resulted in spinal cord injury, her life became significantly more challenging, requiring her to adapt to new physical and emotional realities. These challenges built on earlier hardship, including the loss of her mother to suicide at age twelve, which had already shaped her resilience and compassion for others. Despite these obstacles, Karen found ways to move forward. With determination, a positive outlook, and specialized therapy, she rebuilt her life. She learned to paint with her non-dominant hand and completed her book, Meant for More, a reflection of resilience and renewed purpose. LEARN MORE about Karen, https://www.karenolsonauthor.com/ LEARN MORE ABOUT OUR RESEARCH: https://kesslerfoundation.org/research/center-spinal-cord-injury-research EXPLORE our spinal cord injury research, https://kesslerfoundation.org/research/spinal-cord-injury LEARN MORE about the Northern New Jersey Spinal Cord Injury System (NNJSCIS), https://kesslerfoundation.org/northern-nj-sci-model-system PARTICIPATE: Interested in participating in our research remotely or in-person? Go to https://kesslerfoundation.org/join-our-research-studies Production Notes This podcast was recorded, produced, and edited by Joan Banks-Smith , Sr. Creative Producer at Kessler Foundation (March 2026). Accessibility Kessler Foundation uses AI voices and narrators to make our media more accessible. These tools help ensure people with visual or cognitive impairments can access our materials. Automated voices may not always capture intonation or pronunciation as clearly as the accompanying text. If you experience issues with our AI narrators, please contact us at communications@kesslerfoundation.org.
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How Your Neighborhood Can Affect Life After Spinal Cord Injury
Mar 2400:04:20Tap to summarizeIn this episode, we explore Kessler Foundation’s latest research revealing how neighborhood economic status, physical environment, and access to healthcare influence quality of life after spinal cord injury. Discover how these environmental factors affect health, independence, and participation. Learn why this matters for improving rehabilitation and community support for people with disabilities. READ the full study, Development of Composite Measures of Neighborhood Economic Factors for Use in Spinal Cord Injury Outcomes Studies: A Spinal Cord Injury Model Systems Database Study (2024), pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/39151747/ LEAD INVESTIGATOR: Amanda Botticello, PhD, MPH, https://kesslerfoundation.org/about-us/foundation-staff/amanda-botticello-phd-mph LEARN about our Outcomes and Assessment research, https://kesslerfoundation.org/research/center-outcomes-and-assessment-research READ all our Real-Life Science summaries, https://kesslerfoundation.org/newsletter/real-life-science LISTEN to all our Real-Life Science summaries, soundcloud.com/kesslerfoundation/sets/real-life-science EXPLORE our spinal cord injury research, https://kesslerfoundation.org/research/spinal-cord-injury PARTICIPATE: Interested in participating in our research remotely or in-person? Go to https://kesslerfoundation.org//join-our-research-studies?field_research_categories_target_id[302]=302 Production Notes This podcast was recorded, produced, and edited by Joan Banks-Smith , Sr. Creative Producer at Kessler Foundation (March 2026). Accessibility Kessler Foundation uses AI voices and narrators to make our media more accessible. These tools help ensure people with visual or cognitive impairments can access our materials. Automated voices may not always capture intonation or pronunciation as clearly as the accompanying text. If you experience issues with our AI narrators, please contact us at communications@kesslerfoundation.org.
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Exploring Breakthroughs in Brain Injury Recovery
Mar 1200:30:53Tap to summarizeKaren Nolan, associate director in the Center for Mobility and Rehabilitation Engineering at Kessler Foundation, sat down with Heather Rose of Radio Free Roanoke for a powerful conversation on her work in traumatic brain injury research and her role as a professor at Rutgers New Jersey Medical School. LEARN more about Kessler Foundation, https://kesslerfoundation.org/about-us Make a Gift, https://kesslerfoundation.org/?form=GiveKessler Used with permission: @radiofreeroanoke
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